Coming up -- Published Sept. 12, 2013

Thursday

Sep 12, 2013 at 12:01 AM

For a second year, the Stockton Symphony opens its season with two pops concerts. Immigrant Soul, an ensemble led by Irish-American fiddler Eileen Ivers, joins the orchestra, which is conducted by Peter Jaffe.

The Record

Music: Celtic soul

For a second year, the Stockton Symphony opens its season with two pops concerts. Immigrant Soul, an ensemble led by Irish-American fiddler Eileen Ivers, joins the orchestra, which is conducted by Peter Jaffe. Ivers, a Bronx, N.Y., native, toured with "Riverdance" after replacing the original fiddler in 1998, and has recorded Irish tunes for films ("Gangs of New York" and "Some Mother's Son"). The 48-year-old also toured with the Green Fields of America, a band led by Mick Moloney. Sept. 21 and 22, Atherton Auditorium, San Joaquin Delta College. (209) 951-0196.

Event: Circus

The Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus is back in town for five performances of "Built to Amaze," a show name symbolizing the classic American institution's 106-year ambition. Sept. 20-22, Stockton Arena. ticketmaster.com.

In this multi-faceted musical re-telling of the Beatles' formative years, the central character is Brian Epstein, the band manager who helped sculpt the group's image and guide John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr to the pinnacle of word commercial popularity and artistic influence - musically and culturally - in the early 1960s. Epstein (1934-67) spotted the group at Liverpool's Cavern Club and left his family business to help guide the group to the Top of the Pops and global acclaim. Abbey Road plays the tunes. Sept. 28, Bob Hope Theatre, Stockton, ticketmaster.com; (209) 373-1400.

This trio opens the Friends of Chamber Music's 58th season with a degree of familiarity. James Stern and Audrey Andrist, who are married, have played together as the Stern/Andrist Duo for 20 years, with beginnings in Northern California. Stern, who plays violin and viola, and Stern, a pianist, now are based in Maryland. They combine with clarinet player Nathan Williams, who lives and teaches in Austin, Texas. Oct. 6, Faye Spanos Concert Hall, University of the Pacific. $25; 17 and younger and students, free. (209) 946-0540.

Comedy: Anjelah Johnson

A former member of the Oakland Raiderettes, this 31-year-old native of San Jose has developed a successful career in acting and stand-up comedy. Oct. 5, Bob Hope Theatre, Stockton. Ticketmaster.com.

Music: Yellowjackets

In the 1980s, this Los Angeles group was at the forefront of jazz fusion. Russell Ferrante, Bob Mintzer, Will Kennedy and Felix Pastorius are the current members. Oct. 4, Gallo Center, Modesto. (209) 338-2100.

Music: Alameda All Stars

This Bay Area trio, originally formed 34 years ago, is perhaps best-known for its relationship with Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member Gregg Allman. Mark McGee (vocals, guitar), Tom Miller (vocals, bass) and Preston Thrall (drums/percussions) were among Allman's recording and touring Friends band, along with alumni Brad Gillis and Jeff Watson. The blues-rocking All-Stars worked on Allman's projects between 1990 and 2004. "We're just looking forward to the next 30 years of music, fun and frivolity," the band members say. Oct. 11, Valley Brewing Company, Stockton. $10. (209) 464-2739.